Two severely malnourished stallions have made a spectacular recovery thanks to work of a Somerset animal welfare charity.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary, which is based just outside Chard, was called into action in April to rescue two unwell horses from a "badly managed" livery yard.

The four-year-old horses, who have been christened Toffee and Minty, had been confined to stables for three years and were severely malnourished, suffering from developmental problems, liver damage, UV intolerance, lice and dental problems.

Less than six months on, both stallions are fit and healthy and looking for a new home following their stay at the sanctuary.

Toffee was confined to stables for three years before being rescued (Image: Ferne Animal Sanctuary)

The horses had been bought as yearlings (one-year-olds) under a payment plan that was defaulted on, leading to court proceedings and bailiffs being authorised to retrieve them. However, at that time the whereabouts of both the animals and owners were unknown.

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A spokesperson for the charity said: "The horses come from an outstanding line of champions - showing that even if an animal begins its life with exceptional upbringing, a caring home and impressive pedigree, there is no immunity from this kind of subterfuge, neglect and abuse.

The sanctuary was called in following a tip-off from a member of the public (Image: Ferne Animal Sanctuary)

"The beauty and character of the geldings is more apparent with every day as they gain strength and become healthier with the appropriate nutrition in the caring environment of the Sanctuary.

"We are now looking to find loving homes for Toffee and Minty on a permanent loan basis. Their ideal owners would be lovers of the Arabian breed, experienced in educating young horses and be able to provide a suitable, safe environment."